The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has intensified its efforts to address illegal online gambling websites, particularly targeting operators that breach the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. Recently, the authority reported 75 websites to internet service providers for blocking. This analysis examines ACMA’s recent initiatives in relation to known illegal casino operations, especially those linked to Dama N.V. and Softswiss.
Key Insights
ACMA has been consistently blocking illegal gambling websites, having blocked a total of 1,059 sites since November 2019. The latest ACMA report frequently references Dama N.V. and its various illegal online casinos. Between October and December 2024, ACMA issued blocking orders for several gambling websites that were operating unlawfully in Australia. The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 explicitly prohibits unlicensed online casino-style games, such as pokies and table games, for Australian customers. Since the enforcement of new regulations in 2017, more than 220 illegal services have exited the Australian market.
Context of Rabidi and Softswiss
Although not directly mentioned in the ACMA report, it is important to highlight the links to known illegal operators. Rabidi N.V., a defunct operator based in Curacao, was part of a network of illegal online casinos, and its operations resemble those currently under ACMA’s scrutiny. Dama N.V., another operator based in Curacao and part of the Softswiss group, is likely engaging in similar illegal activities as Rabidi. The Softswiss Group has been previously exposed by FinTelegram, which identified the ultimate beneficial owners behind its illegal gambling operations: Ivan Montik (originally from Belarus), Roland Isaev (from Russia), and Paata Gamgoneishvili (also from Russia).
Consequences
ACMA’s actions indicate a growing pressure on illegal operators, which could impact entities like Dama N.V. and others within the Softswiss network. The blocking of these websites is intended to safeguard Australian consumers from unregulated and potentially dangerous gambling services. The considerable number of operators withdrawing from the Australian market suggests that regulatory measures are producing significant results.
Final Thoughts
ACMA’s persistent efforts to tackle illegal online gambling are in line with global regulatory enforcement trends. The actions taken against various operators underscore the risks associated with entities like Dama N.V. and the wider Softswiss group. As regulatory scrutiny increases, operators linked to known illegal activities are likely to face greater difficulties in sustaining their operations in regulated markets such as Australia.
Report Illegal Casino Activities
FinTelegram urges insiders and victims to step forward and report any activities related to illegal casinos, gambling operations, and associated money laundering schemes. This call to action aims to combat financial crime and protect consumers within the online gambling sector.
Reporting Illegal Gambling Activities
If you possess information regarding:
– Unlicensed online casinos
– Fraudulent gambling schemes
– Money laundering through gambling platforms
– Other illegal activities within the gambling industry